Staging your home before showing it can make a huge difference. It may help you make a quicker sale or get more money for your home. When entering a home for the first time, potential buyers form a quick first impression based on appearance, atmosphere and even scent. With a beautifully staged home, you can make sure this first impression is a good one!

However, professional house stagers and all the furniture and decorating that they recommend can be pricey. For those who are on a budget, but still want to make the most out of their sale, here are some tips for staging your house, the affordable way!

De-clutter.

When a potential buyer walks into a home, they want to be able to imagine themselves living there. This isn’t as easy if the house is cluttered with the owner’s personal belongings! Clear any personal items out of the way before staging. Not only will the lack of clutter make it easier for you to clean and organize, it will create a more welcoming environment for those who are viewing the house. If you lack storage space, consider a short-term storage unit (which may be helpful during a move anyway).

It’s what’s on the outside that counts.

As we said, potential buyers often form quick judgements and first impressions when looking at a house. You can make a good first impression before they even step inside by making the outside of your house look beautiful. There are many things you can do to make the outside of your home look inviting, while spending very little money. Enhance the outside appearance of your home by:

Power washing the outside, including windows and porch, if needed. If you don’t own a power washer, they can often be rented at stores such as Home Depot.

Adding flowers to and tidying up your garden. A perfect garden goes a long way!

Arranging patio furniture on the porch.

Painting your mailbox or porch.

Show off your storage.

Many buyers are looking for homes with storage potential. Showcase your home’s storage by leaving closets open, thoroughly clean and well-organized. For instance, sorting your clothing in your bedroom closet by colour can make a great impression and draw attention to the closet space your home offers.

Pay attention to detail.

It’s really the little things that make a house staging special. Consider adding a bowl of potpourri in the bathroom or seasonal decoration in the kitchen—these small details can really enhance the look of your home. Check out home decorating blogs for ideas and try to use items you already have to maximize the style and atmosphere of your home.

Keep the place spick and span.

Nothing turns of a would-be buyer more than a big mess! Your home should be sparkling and clean throughout. If you have the time, put a day or two of deep cleaning in yourself to save money. However, you may find it easier to hire a professional to do the job. Either way, your home should look spotless and smell fresh and clean.

Hopefully these tips help you stage your house beautifully, while still saving money! Remember to be resourceful and pay attention to detail and it should all pay off.